The Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy, SOFIA

The Stratospheric Observatory For Infrared Astronomy, SOFIA, during its first test flight with its telescope exposed, on 18 December 2009 above the Mojave desert in California. The German-built 2.5-metre infrared telescope is visible through the opening in the aircraft. The test flight with the door open made it possible for the engineers to monitor the movement of air in and around the telescope and the door.